How secure is Java compared to other languages?

As with other aspects of cybersecurity, the level of programming language security depends on what we mean by “secure.” It’s true that Java has fewer identified vulnerabilities than some other commonly used languages. It’s also true that some newer languages appear more secure than Java, at least at first glance.

Many of the security holes that have been found in Java are the result of its popularity. Widespread usage means that thousands of bug hunters are dedicated to finding Java language vulnerabilities, which gives Java an unfair “advantage” in this field. Likewise, the implied security of some newer languages, like Ruby, could reflect their niche usage more than their integrity.